The isometric handgrip exercise as a test for unmasking hypertension in the offsprings of hypertensive parents.

Background: A familial history of hypertension increases the risk of hypertension in the offsprings.

Aims And Objectives: The present study was undertaken to assess the underlying hypertension by using the Isometric Handgrip (IHG) exercise test in the offsprings of hypertensive parents and to compare it with age-matched controls of normotensive parents.

Material And Methods: The isometric handgrip test was performed in the study and control groups. The resting blood pressure was recorded before exercise and afterwards the subjects were asked to perform the isometric handgrip exercise with the dominant hand for 2 minutes. Then the blood pressure was recorded in the sitting position during and 5 minutes after the completion of the exercise.

Statistical Analysis: The analysis of the results was done by ANOVA with SPSS, version 17.0, by using the unpaired 't' test.

Results: The results showed that the Resting Systolic (SBP), Diastolic (DBP) and the Mean (MBP) Blood Pressures were higher (p <0.001) in the offsprings of the hypertensive parents as compared to those in the control subjects of normotensive parents. During the isometric handgrip exercise test, the rise in the systolic, diastolic and the mean blood pressures was significantly higher (p<0.001) in the offsprings of the hypertensive parents. After 5 minutes of exercise, the SBP, DBP and the MBP were found to be significantly higher (p<0.001) in the study group as compared to those in the control group.

Conclusions: An early and a regular screening of the children of hypertensive parents is necessary to prevent any future cardiovascular complications.